Why should I apply to the School of Psychology?

You should apply to the School of Psychology for the following reasons:

Established. Fuller’s doctoral programs in Clinical Psychology draw on more than 30 years of experience and expertise. The master’s program in Marriage and Family began in Fuller’s School of Theology in the early 1970s, and then moved into the School of Psychology in 1987.

Productive. Graduates of the School Psychology programs serve on hospital staffs; in private practice; in church-sponsored counseling centers; in business, industry, and government; and as faculty members in higher education.

Varied. Fuller offers its students an environment of cultural, ethnic, gender, and denominational diversity. The diverse ethnic makeup of our faculty and student body, combined with that of our training sites, provides a rich preparation for serving people in urban settings and around the world.

Comprehensive. Students in all School of Psychology programs receive abundant opportunities for direct clinical contact with clients, along with ample supervision.

Participatory. By long tradition, Fuller has a strong student government system; students serve on various seminary committees and have voting privileges at our faculty meetings. The Psychology Graduate Union has both a women’s resource coordinator and an ethnic resource coordinator.

Warm. Besides the personal warmth that characterizes the School of Psychology community, Fuller’s location offers a mild climate and the lively cultural attractions of Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area. Beaches and mountains are nearby, and outdoor recreational opportunities abound.

Challenging. Each program within the School of Psychology has its own admission deadline and requirements, as detailed in the Fuller Theological Seminary Catalog and in program-specific information sheets. An applicant should expect to submit transcripts showing prerequisite degrees earned and prerequisite course work; scores from the Graduate Record Exam (if a clinical student) or from either the Graduate Record Exam or the Miller Analogies Test (if a MF student); a statement of purpose; and letters of recommendation. Admission decisions are made by a committee of faculty members and students.

What do students do once they finish in the School of Psychology?

Students who come into the School of Psychology go on to do a variety of professions.  While most students find themselves giving therapeutic services in both private practice and community mental health centers, others find themselves teaching, doing pastoral care work and a variety of things.

Who teaches in the School of Psychology?

All School of Psychology faculty members hold a PhD or PsyD; none of our courses are taught by graduate students.

When may I start my studies?

Students are admitted to the Clinical Program to begin in the fall.   Students who are admitted to the MFT program begin their studies in the fall, while those who are admitted into the MAFS or the Certificate Program may be admitted to begin studies in fall, winter, spring or summer. 

How many students are in the School of Psychology?

The School of Psychology currently has approximately 350 students.  Approximately 240 of those are Clinical Students; the other 110 are MFT students. 

How long does it take to complete a School of Psychology Program?

• PhD = 6 years
• PsyD = 5 years
• MSMFT = 2 years
• MAFS = 2 years

May students take classes in more than one school?

Yes!  All students are required to take classes in the School of Psychology (SOP), the School of Theology (SOT) and the School of Intercultural Studies (SIS).

How much does the School of Psychology cost?

For the 2008 - 2009 academic year, the per-unit tuition cost per program is:

• SOP = $540
• MFT = $375
• SOT = $330
• SIS =  $321

Is there financial aid? Are there teaching or research assistantships?

Students are allowed various forms of financial aid, including merit scholarships, grant aid, and loans.  For more information on financial aid, click here.

Students are also given the opportunity to do teaching and research assistantships, which is determined by a student’s completion of degree requirements.